Description
Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots and Cheese is a comforting, hearty, and cheesy one-dish meal. Combining savory ground beef, crispy tater tots, melted cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners and pleases the whole family with minimal effort and easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
Seasonings & Oils
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks through until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in diced green chilies and tomato sauce, then let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture at the bottom of the dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef, covering the entire surface.
- Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the tater tots. Ensure an even layer for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness—watch closely to avoid burning.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and onions for a more intense flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking beef to ensure even browning.
- Layer tater tots evenly for consistent crispiness.
- Try mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg